Microsoft patents cool multi-touch virtual keyboard

Microsoftâ€™s patent covers the automatic appearance of a keyboard if it recognizes the palm and fingers of both hands on a multi-touch screen and also the â€œHome rowâ€ gesture. They keyboard will then automatically pop, and also be perfectly positioned to start touch typing, not only in a fixed rectangular set-up, but also with a split keyboard positioned under each hand.

The patent also covers dismissing the keyboard with a gesture, making for a rather futuristic sci-fi-like experience, and may make extended touch typing on a soft keyboard an acceptable and comfortable reality.

Probably a bit too large for our smartphones, this Microsoft patent may show up on the next generation ofÂ Microsoft tablet PCâ€™s.